Page:Fielding - Sex and the Love Life.pdf/152

Later, as they grow older, the couple will find it expedient to lengthen the period between the acts of coitus. Generally speaking—but exceptions must be allowed for—after forty, the sex relations may well be limited to once a week, and in later years, probably after fifty, to two or three times, or less, a month.

Where there is a considerable difference between the sexual vigor of the husband and wife, there should be an effort made to accommodate themselves to each other; that is, the one in whom the sexual libido is stronger should exercise restraint so as not to make excessive demands upon or to overtax the strength of the weaker person.

On the other hand, the one whose sexual nature is weaker should make all reasonable attempts to increase his or her potency, so as to bring about a more equitable adjustment in the sexual relations.

The climax should be followed by nervous relaxation; but if, instead, there be increased tension, this is an indication that the couple have not accommodated themselves to each other. With a rational insight into the nature and beauty of sex, and its expressions, the normal woman should soon overcome any deleterious inhibitions which may have resulted from her faulty upbringing with its prurient emphasis on sex.

There are some wives, quite exceptional, but not rare, who are so robust sexually that they make inordinate demands upon the husband. A policy of greater moderation should prevail here, as excessive intercourse is more debilitating to the man than to the woman. To the latter, excesses cause nervous strain and distressing psychic reactions, but excesses drain the man of his reserve of vital energy.

In the question of frequency, it may seem perhaps that I have spoken too largely from the husband's standpoint; but I wish to reiterate that the wife's wishes and feelings should